Socrates is said to have brought philosophy down from the heavens to the earth and is thereby recognized as the founder of Western moral and political philosophy. But in launching this subject, did the 5th century BC Greek philosopher also inaugurate the study of management and business ethics? Our answer is yes.
Socrates’ inquiry into management, featured in Xenophon’s Oeconomicus, contains valuable insights still relevant to the contemporary world. In that foundational work of Western economic thought, Socrates is portrayed attempting to expound the science and art of management to an eager student. He develops this topic, in no small part, by actively seeking out a successful practitioner, engaging him in conversation and probing him with questions.